Metoprolol

Question 1

What are Metoprolol’s brand names?

Answer 1

Lopressor, Toprol XL

Question 2

What is Metoprolol’s therapeutic category?

Answer 2

Beta-1 Adrenergic Blocker

Question 3

What are Metoprolol’s indications?

Answer 3

Hypertension, angina pectoris, Acute myocardial infarction

Question 4

What is Metoprolol’s usual adult dose?

Answer 4

IR: 50-200 mg BID
ER: 25-100 mg/day
Max: 400 mg/day

Question 5

What are Metoprolol’s common side effects?

Answer 5

Hypotension, dizziness, fatigue, GI (diarrhea, constipation, nausea)

Question 6

What are Metoprolol’s monitoring parameters?

Answer 6

BP, heart rate

Cardiac function

Question 7

What are Metoprolol’s available dosage forms?

Answer 7

Lopressor IR tablet: 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg
Toprol XL XR tablet: 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg, 200 mg
Injection: 1 mg/ml

Question 8

What are Metoprolol’s warnings?

Answer 8

BLACK BOX warning: Do not withdraw abruptly but gradually taper over 1-2 weeks to avoid acute tachycardia, hypertension and/or ischemia

Question 9

What are Metoprolol’s counseling points?

Answer 9

Gradually taper off when stopping to avoid tachycardia, hypertension, and/or ischemia
When switching from IR to XR = same total daily dose
IR - take with food
XR - take without regard to meals
XR can be cut in half but DO NOT chew or crush
Caution on orthostatic hypotension
Avoid activities requiring mental alertness until effects are realized